For Original Medicare, Part A and Part B a simple way to determine your exact Medicare effective date is to refer to the lower right corner of your Medicare Card or to refer to your letter from either the Social Security Administration or the Railroad Retirement Board.

No. Medicare Supplement insurance policies help cover Medicare Part A & B out-of-pocket costs. Medicare Advantage Plans are an alternative way to get your Medicare coverage and, in some cases, additional benefits.

Any time after you are enrolled in Medicare Parts A & B. You do not have to wait for Open Enrollment to buy a policy. The best time to buy is in the first 6 months after you are 65 years old and enrolled in Medicare Parts A & B.

The best time to enroll is during the open enrollment window around your 65th birthday – preferably in the three months before the month you turn 65, so that you’ll have Medicare coverage by the time you turn 65.

The open Enrollment period for Medicare is October 15 - December 7 every year.

Your income and resources determine the level of help you receive. Eligibility is limited to annual income of $17,505 for an individual and $23,595 for married couples. In addition, resources must not exceed $13,440 for an individual and $26,860 for married couples.

Policies help pay for Medicare Part A & B deductibles, co-payments, and co-insurance. Some policies also include coverage for certain health services not covered by Medicare.